rules

As the incoming chair of the Professional Horseman’s Council, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and the Council and talk about what some of our goals are for the upcoming season.

Following continued monitoring of concussion research and Head Injury Assessment Guidelines and consultation with healthcare professions, the Chief Medical Officers for BE and the FEI and British Eventing Officials and Organisers, BE has implemented the rule that any competitor falling during their dressage test or on course of the show jumping or cross country phase will be eliminated and not allowed to continue on course.

While 2018 season is getting underway in the southern states, many competitors are getting ready to leave the start box for the first time this year while others are still planning out their goals for the season. Part of the goal-planning process is making sure you achieve the necessary qualifications to achieve those goals, so we’re taking a look at Appendix 3 in this rule refresher. Appendix 3, Participation in Horse Trials, defines the requirements for different divisions and the qualifications necessary for each level.

The first competitors of 2018 left the start box this past weekend, which makes this a perfect time to brush up on the changes to the USEF Rules for Eventing which went into effect on December 1, 2017.

Due to the recent news regarding positive test results of samples collected from three Eventing Riders competing in the CIC3* at the Ocala Jockey Club International 3- Day Event this past November in Reddick, Florida; the ERA of NA strongly suggests all equestrian athletes (and their support personnel) competing in any FEI competitions, regardless of the level, familiarize themselves with WADA Rules and Policies. More information can be found at www.globalDRO.org.

Disqualification from competition can occur for a number of reasons, so make sure you’re familiar with the different ways in which a rider can be disqualified to avoid making a costly mistake! Text has been taken directly from the USEF Rules For Eventing, with emphasis added by the USEA. EV117 Disqualification

Last month we covered the rules that dictate equipment and attire for the rider, but what about the rules governing what your horse wears in competition? We’ve broken down the rules covering all aspects of saddlery, from nose to tail, so that you know what equipment is permissible in competition.

In our last Rule Refresher, we covered the rules dictating protective equipment and training aids such as whips and spurs that are permissible in competition. Now, we're covering the rules outlining appropriate dress for riders for all three phases. Text has been taken directly from the USEF Rules For Eventing, with emphasis added by the USEA.5. DRESSAGE TEST.